“In an effort to” means that an action is being taken with a particular aim. It is often wordier than necessary, and in many sentences “to” or “in order to” is clearer.
Use a Shorter Purpose Phrase Where Possible
- To
- In order to
- With the aim of
- With the goal of
- With the intention of
- For the purpose of
- In pursuit of
- With a view to
- So as to
- To help
- To support
- To improve
- To reduce
- To ensure
- As part of efforts to
To
Usually the clearest and most concise replacement.
Example: We simplified the form to reduce errors.
In order to
Useful when the purpose needs slightly more emphasis.
Example: The team met weekly in order to monitor progress.
With the aim of
A formal choice for stating an intended objective.
Example: The policy was introduced with the aim of reducing waste.
With the goal of
Natural in business and project writing.
Example: The service was redesigned with the goal of improving access.
With the intention of
Best when emphasizing deliberate intent.
Example: They contacted residents with the intention of gathering feedback.
For the purpose of
A formal phrase, useful when legal or procedural precision matters.
Example: The data were collected for the purpose of evaluating the programme.
In pursuit of
Useful for broader or longer-term aims rather than simple tasks.
Example: The organization expanded its training in pursuit of higher standards.
With a view to
A formal phrase meaning with the intention or expectation of a future result.
Example: The teams met with a view to developing a joint proposal.
So as to
A formal alternative to “in order to,” though less common in everyday writing.
Example: The schedule was changed so as to avoid a clash.
To help
Useful when the action contributes to a goal but may not achieve it alone.
Example: We added examples to help clarify the guidance.
To support
Best when the action enables or contributes to a wider objective.
Example: The fund was created to support local innovation.
To improve
A direct replacement when improvement is the specific purpose.
Example: The process was revised to improve consistency.
To reduce
Useful when the aim is to lessen a problem, cost, risk, or burden.
Example: The form was shortened to reduce completion time.
To ensure
Best when the purpose is to make a condition more certain.
Example: Checks were added to ensure accurate reporting.
As part of efforts to
Useful when the action is one component of a broader programme of work.
Example: New guidance was issued as part of efforts to improve safety.